Sri Lanka has been selected as one of 20 countries worldwide to host an integrated South Asia office of the World Bank Group, set to open on July 25, 2025, according to Ajay Banga, President of the World Bank Group.
The announcement was made during a virtual meeting yesterday between Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Ajay Banga.
This initiative is part of the World Bank Group President’s plan to establish 20 integrated offices worldwide to enhance coordination among its four key institutions:
- The International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD)
- The International Development Association (IDA)
- The International Finance Corporation (IFC)
- The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA)
Focus Areas for Sri Lanka
During the meeting, Banga emphasized his commitment to promoting job creation and addressing critical development challenges in Sri Lanka. The World Bank Group’s support includes financial and technical assistance for:
- Education, Healthcare, and Social Protection
- Economic Prosperity and Institutional Development
- Economic Policy, Competitiveness, and Investments
- Poverty Alleviation
Additional efforts will focus on advancing:
- Agriculture and Water Management
- Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability
- Social Inclusion, Infrastructure, and Digital Transformation
This collaboration is expected to provide Sri Lanka with innovative solutions to drive sustainable growth and development.